The influence of surface inhomogeneities on corrosion processes is demonstrated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Experimental impedance data obtained in different systems are discussed on the basis of transfer function analysis. The examples given include defects in single- and multi-layer films of organic metal coatings and anodized aluminium, oxygen corrosion of iron and steel in neutral aerated solutions, and the influence of donor states on the semiconducting properties of passive films on Zn, ZnCo, and ZnNi substrates. © 1990.